The Zygo Cactus, more commonly referred to as the Christmas Cactus, has one of the most beautiful, brilliant blooms I’ve ever seen. And, with proper care and the right environment, they will continue to bloom year after year. I’ve had mine for more than ten years. The Christmas Cactus has flowers in various shades of pink, red, and white. The differing sizes and shapes of the Christmas Cactus are as unique as their brilliant holiday colors.

The plant requires soil containing rich, organic material. The recommended growing medium is one part potting soil, two parts peat, and one part sand. It is very important to choose a pot that allows for proper drainage. Like most cactus and succulents, they prefer to be root-bound rather than planted in a pot that is too large.

Moderate, filtered lighting is best for the Christmas Cactus. I place mine outside in a partially shaded location on my front porch as soon as there is no danger of frost. I water it moderately throughout the summer and let it dry out a bit beginning in early September. To promote blooms, I keep my Christmas Cactus outside in the Fall while the temperature ranges between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, before danger of a frost, I bring it inside and keep it in a cool room.

In addition, in order to bloom, they need several hours per day of complete darkness beginning around the middle of October. While the buds are developing, the Christmas Cactus should be placed in a location that receives filtered light. At this point, it should not be moved. After the Christmas Cactus forms its blooms, it requires regular watering It’s important not to let it dry out while it’s forming buds and blooming. After blooming, you can prune your Christmas Cactus by pinching or cutting off a few sections. This pruning will promote branching and new growth.

To keep your Christmas Cactus blooming and healthy for years, it should be fertilized once a month starting in March through September. Do not fertilize from October through February.

Learn more about blooming houseplants: